Are you looking for an unknown destination for your holidays? Albania is an excellent destination, still protected from overtourism. The country promises to become a must-visit summer destination.
With 363 kilometers of coastline bathed by the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania has many beautiful sandy beaches, secluded bays, and seas often compared to those of the Caribbean.
In addition to its countless beaches, the country also offers picturesque landscapes and many cities, some more touristy than others. Here is a list of the best cities in Albania, selected by Euronews.
Apollonia: one of the oldest cities in Albania
It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, where you can explore a vast site of Greek ruins. This site is incredibly well-preserved and surprisingly empty, despite its historical value and tourist importance.
Visitors will have the chance to observe the still-standing temple facade, a theater, and various other ancient monuments and ruins. They will also find on the site a magnificent medieval church, dedicated to Saint Mary, which testifies to the rapid Christianization of the region.
Vlora: close to Italy
Located just 72 km from the Italian coast, south of Tirana, the city of Vlora is also one of the most historic cities in Albania. Its origins date back to the 6th century BC.
Near the city is the Jal beach, a beautiful secluded and quiet beach. The city also has one of the most famous natural harbors in the country, at the end of which is the island of Sazan.
Dhërmi: a must-stop on a trip to Albania
Located halfway between Vlora and Saranda on the Ionian coast, the village of Dhërmi is a must-stop on any stay on the Albanian Riviera. It is renowned for its landscapes with turquoise blue sea and the Ceraunian Mountains in the background.
This village is one of the most visited tourist sites along the entire Albanian coast. Not far from Dhërmi beach, you can visit the Pirates’ Cave, accessible by boat or ferry.
Borsh: ideal for swimming on the Albanian Riviera
This maritime village on the Albanian Riviera is the perfect place for a refreshing swim in clear water while admiring a beautiful mountain landscape. It has about 1,000 inhabitants and is part of the municipality of Himara.
Borsh is best known for its beach, the longest in the region, and for its springs that descend from the mountain, offering a beautiful panorama from the fortress overlooking the village.
Saranda: one of the most important tourist cities in Albania
Saranda is located in the extreme southwest of Albania, on the Ionian Sea. It is one of the most important tourist cities on the Ionian coast and is close to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore Ksamil beach where there are four small islets covered with Mediterranean vegetation. From Saranda, you can take a trip to the ruins of Butrint.
The city is also only 9 km from the Greek island of Corfu, from where you can take excursions to the Greek island. There are indeed many daily connections between Saranda and Corfu.
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